Sorry, Sambas—I'll Be Opting for One of These 5 Trending Trainers Instead This Spring
We all know that when it comes to It trainers, few can be called as iconic as adidas Sambas. These trainers have long since left the shoe trend territory and cemented their place as a cool-girl staple. In fact, whether I'm scrolling my Instagram FYP or walking through the bustling city centre at lunch, it's basically a guarantee that I'll spot at least one pair of Sambas trainers.
But I'll admit that lately there have been a few other trainers styles that have caught my eye. First up, adidas as a brand have so many designs that I think rival Sambas in both style and comfort, with just as many fun colourways and ways to wear. Then, there's the likes of Onitsuka Tiger and Nike, both of which have some pretty iconic trainers beloved by the likes of Hailey Bieber, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Dakota Johnson. That's fairly powerful sway in my books.
That's why this spring, I'm shining a spotlight on my favourite alternatives to adidas Sambas. And thanks to some of my favourite fashion influencers, it's been only too easy to visual how I'd wear my top picks and still get that retro, sporty look that's part and parcel of adidas Sambas outfits.
So if you fancy reaching for a different pair of trainers with an equally cool aesthetic, you've come to the right place. Here's my edit of the best alternatives to adidas Sambas trainers, and quick links to shop them yourself.
Shop the Best Alternatives to Adidas Sambas:
1. Adidas Tokyos
Style Notes: It doesn't get more sporty chic than this. Adidas Tokyos lend themselves to an athleisure style (which Aisha has nailed perfectly), and their low-profile design means they're the ideal trainers to wear with skirts.
Shop the Shoe:
adidas Originals
Tokyo Trainers in White and Black
Opt for the classic black and white to get that retro sporty look.
adidas Originals
Tokyo Nubuck-Trimmed Suede Sneakers
I'm loving a zingy pop of blue this spring.
adidas Originals
Green & Yellow Tokyo Sneakers
I'd style these with loose-fitting jeans or a black midi skirt.
adidas Originals
Tokyo Sneakers in Black and White
The perfect blend of comfort and style.
2. Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 Sneakers
Style Notes: The Mexico 66 sneakers from Onitsuka Tiger went pretty viral a couple of years ago, but they've remained a firm favourite of mine since. The yellow and black pair are without a doubt the most iconic, but I'm just as much a fan of the more neutral colourways, too.
Shop the Shoe:
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico 66 in Black and White
A pair you'd reach for on repeat.
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico 66 in Yellow and Black
Fashion influencers have shown us time and again that there are so many ways to style these sneakers.
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico 66 in Beige and Green
Onitsuka Tiger
Mexico 66 in Sand Red and Cream
3. Adidas Gazelles
Style Notes: Adidas Gazelles are probably the closest match to Sambas, but while the Samba features a leather upper with suede overlays, the Gazelle uses a full suede upper. And a full-suede trainer brings a soft, velvety touch to an outfit.
